Skillet Beef and Rice

Searching for a hearty, comforting meal that comes together in under 30 minutes? This Skillet Beef and Rice is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome dinner without the cleanup. By combining lean ground beef, tender rice, and flavorful pantry staples in one pan, you create a satisfying dish that the whole family will love. This one-pot wonder balances protein and fiber, making it a perfect “easy meal” solution. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or just need a stress-free dinner, this flavorful Skillet Beef and Rice is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

This recipe relies on high-quality pantry staples to develop a deep, savory flavor profile. Using lean ground beef ensures a clean taste, while beef broth and Worcestershire sauce provide a rich base for the rice to absorb.

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, do not drain
• 1 cup beef broth
• ½ cup long grain rice, rinsed
• 1 teaspoon beef bouillon
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 (16 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• Salt and pepper, to taste

These small adjustments can help you tailor the recipe to your preferences.

• Rice: You can use jasmine or basmati rice for a different texture, though you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.
• Beans: Swap kidney beans for black beans if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Beef: Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a lean alternative to ground beef.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers or frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Broth: If you are watching sodium, look for a low-sodium beef broth and adjust your final seasoning accordingly.

Step 1: Brown the meat

In a large 12-inch skillet, cook your ground beef and diced onion over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it browns, ensuring it cooks evenly until no pink remains. If there is excess grease in the pan, drain it carefully before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Simmer the rice

Stir in the canned tomatoes, beef broth, rice, beef bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil for one minute. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the rice is tender.

Step 3: Combine and serve

Remove the lid and stir in the corn and kidney beans. Continue to simmer for 2 additional minutes until everything is warmed through. Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper to your preference before serving immediately.

Serve this dish hot as a complete one-skillet meal, or pair it with simple sides to round out your dinner table.

• Top with a dollop of sour cream or fresh cilantro.
• Serve alongside a crisp garden salad or roasted green beans.
• Pairs perfectly with warm flour tortillas if you want to turn it into a wrap.
• A side of cornbread adds a wonderful texture contrast.

Store any leftover Skillet Beef and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, reheat your portion in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a small splash of water or broth if needed to keep the rice from drying out.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time by chopping the onion and opening the cans. However, for the best texture, it is recommended to cook the rice fresh right before serving.

Can I freeze this recipe?

You can freeze this in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop.

What can I serve with this recipe?

It works great with a side of warm crusty bread, fresh garden salad, or even a side of roasted seasonal vegetables.

How do I keep this recipe from drying out?

Ensure you keep the lid tight during the simmering process to trap moisture. If the rice looks like it is absorbing liquid too quickly, just add a small splash of extra broth.

If you enjoy this quick dinner, check out our other favorite family meals:

• Try our Quick Ground Beef Pasta for another fast weeknight win.
• For something different, our Easy Beef Tacos are always a hit.
• Check out our Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup for chilly nights.
• If you love rice, our Easy Fried Rice is a pantry must-make.

Skillet Beef and Rice is the definition of a “set it and forget it” weeknight meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. By relying on simple ingredients and a single skillet, you cut down on dishes while delivering a protein-packed, filling dinner that everyone at the table will enjoy. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or rushing to get dinner on the table after a long day, this recipe delivers consistent results. Give this easy meal a try tonight, and see how simple it is to bring a delicious, homemade dinner to your table with minimal effort.

Skillet Beef and Rice

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: Clarice
• Prep Time: 5 Mins
• Cook Time: 20 Mins
• Total Time: 25 Mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

This one-pot Skillet Beef and Rice is a hearty, comforting meal designed for busy weeknights. By combining lean ground beef, tender long-grain rice, and protein-packed kidney beans in a single pan, this recipe delivers a wholesome dinner with minimal cleanup. Infused with savory beef broth, aromatic garlic, and pantry staples, it creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile. Perfect for families or meal prepping, this flexible, stress-free dish ensures you get a balanced, nutritious dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 lb lean ground beef

1 medium onion, diced

1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 cup beef broth

1/2 cup long grain rice, rinsed

1 teaspoon beef bouillon

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 (15 oz) can corn, drained

1 (16 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

Salt and pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the meat

In a large 12-inch skillet, cook your ground beef and diced onion over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it browns, ensuring it cooks evenly until no pink remains. If there is excess grease in the pan, drain it carefully before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Simmer the rice

Stir in the canned tomatoes, beef broth, rice, beef bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil for one minute. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the rice is tender.

Step 3: Combine and serve

Remove the lid and stir in the corn and kidney beans. Continue to simmer for 2 additional minutes until everything is warmed through. Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper to your preference before serving immediately.

Pro Tips

• Always rinse your rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming gummy.
• Keep the lid on while the rice simmers; opening it too often releases the steam needed for fluffy rice.
• If the skillet looks dry before the rice is fully cooked, add a splash of extra beef broth or water.
• Let the dish sit for 2–3 minutes off the heat before serving; this allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

---

Notes

Substitute kidney beans with black beans for a different texture. Jasmine or basmati rice can be used, though you may need to adjust the broth volume slightly. Ensure you use a non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce brand. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

---

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 65mg